NFL fans are closely watching as Aaron Rodgers weighs his next move after being released by the New York Jets in February following two lackluster seasons. The Pittsburgh Steelers have reportedly extended an offer to the four-time MVP, but Rodgers has yet to provide a response, creating uncertainty about the quarterback’s future in the league. This led to mounting worries about how the delay might affect the team‘s preparations for the upcoming season.
Former NFL player and analyst James Jones, who shared the field with Rodgers during their time with the Green Bay Packers from 2007 to 2013, highlighted the impact of Rodgers’ hesitation on the Steelers. Speaking on 93.7 The Fan as the Steelers began their Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Jones pointed out that the team is missing crucial time developing chemistry with the quarterback because of the ongoing wait.
“That’s all the stuff that they are missing out on right now, chemistry-wise,” Jones said. “That’s a big piece of what they are missing right now is that chemistry. The longer it goes, the less time they get to build on that.”
—James Jones, Former NFL Player and Analyst
On the Steelers’ current quarterback roster, Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson remain the most experienced among the options available. They also selected former Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in the 2024 NFL Draft with the 185th overall pick, yet the franchise appears hopeful Rodgers will ultimately join them for the upcoming campaign. However, time is quickly running short for Rodgers to make a definitive choice if he intends to play in Pittsburgh.
Insider Predicts Critical Deadline for Rodgers’ Decision
NFL insider Tom Pelissero recently addressed the situation on the Rich Eisen Show, suggesting that a clear decision from Rodgers is anticipated around the time of the Steelers’ mandatory minicamp, which starts on June 10. Pelissero described this as the “next logical checkpoint” for the veteran quarterback to confirm his plans. He highlighted that several previous deadlines have already passed without resolution.
“We’ve already gotten to what I believe to be the midnight point several times already with Aaron Rodgers,” Pelissero said. “It was the start of league meetings when things are moving and the Steelers are making decisions and they’re having to answer questions about it.”
—Tom Pelissero, NFL Insider
“He missed some of the offseason program, he’s missing OTA starting next week. Mini camp would be the next logical checkpoint here.”
—Tom Pelissero, NFL Insider
Despite the ongoing uncertainty about Rodgers, the Steelers continue with their offseason preparations. Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and Will Howard have been competing for the starting quarterback spot during OTAs as the team moves forward in evaluating its options.
Implications of the Delay for Steelers’ Upcoming Season
The possible signing of Rodgers carries considerable significance for the Steelers, particularly as the quarterback is a former Super Bowl XLV champion who notably defeated Pittsburgh while playing for Green Bay in 2010. Securing a veteran presence like Rodgers could dramatically reshape the team’s offensive dynamics and elevate their playoff chances.
However, with Rodgers’ decision timeline now shortened to early June, the Steelers must navigate the risk that delayed commitment compromises offseason chemistry-building opportunities and limits the time available to integrate him fully into the playbook. Should Rodgers decide not to join, the team will likely have to rely heavily on their younger quarterbacks to lead the offense.
The Aaron Rodgers Steelers decision delay impact remains a critical storyline as the franchise balances patience with the urgency of preparing for the 2024 season. Observers await the quarterback’s final choice as the minicamp deadline approaches, a moment that could define the Steelers’ quarterback future and influence their strategy for the year ahead.